Effect of an aerobic training program as complementary therapy in patients with moderate depression

Percept Mot Skills. 2011 Jun;112(3):761-9. doi: 10.2466/02.15.PMS.112.3.761-769.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of an aerobic training program as complementary therapy in patients suffering from moderate depression. 82 female patients weredivided into a group that received traditional pharmacotherapy (Fluoxetine 20 mg) and a group that received pharmacotherapy plus an aerobic training program. This program was carried out for eight consecutive weeks, three days per week, and included gymnastics, dancing, and walking. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Beck Depression Inventory and the ICD-10 Guide for Depression Diagnosis, both administered before and after treatments. The results confirm the effectiveness of the aerobic training program as a complementary therapy to diminish depressive symptoms in patients suffering from moderate depression.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Controlled Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation / therapeutic use*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Complementary Therapies*
  • Depressive Disorder / diagnosis
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / diagnosis
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / therapy*
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Fluoxetine / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Personality Inventory

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
  • Fluoxetine